By Thomas F. Walther, Johnson Controls
Watch for state leaders and U.S. presidential candidates to turn to energy efficiency initiatives as a means to stimulating economic growth. A new report from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) concludes that energy efficiency can contribute to the growth of state economies, helping to reverse decreasing state tax coffers. The report, “Positive Returns: State Energy-Efficiency Analyses Can Inform U.S. Energy Policy Assessments,” includes a review of 48 state- and regional-level studies on energy efficiency performed over the last 15 years.
The authors determine that “energy efficiency will result in a small but net positive benefit for the American economy as a result of policies that emphasize investment-led energy efficiency improvements. These studies can inform the direction the United States must take to ensure viable energy security and climate change solutions.” One especially interesting finding is that “a 20 percent efficiency gain by 2030 could provide an estimated 800,000 net jobs, while a 30 percent efficiency improvement might generate as many as 1.3 million net jobs.” We’ve found that to be true as we work with many states to reduce energy use and the resulting carbon footprint in state-owned and –operated buildings. For instance, in the state of Indiana, where Johnson Controls is working on a project with the Indiana Department of Corrections, we’ve hired dozens of local contractors for work in replacing outdated boilers and lights, and upgrading energy systems. These “green collar jobs” are exactly what every state – indeed, the entire country – needs to face the challenges of not just the future, but the realities of today. By implementing energy efficiency programs, state and national leaders can have a huge impact.
Tom Walther is Johnson Controls Regional Sales Manager for State Government Solutions for the Eastern United States.
